‘Mila now wants to make and send Catherine a card’

JODI SNEDDON, 20, sister of Mila, pictured with her below, is a Glasgow Caledonian University student of multimedia journalism

TWO YEARS on from the exact day my little sister Mila Sneddon was declared in remission – having battled for almost three years with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia – Catherine, Princess of Wales declared to the world she is in the midst of her own fight. She said she is having preventive chemotherapy following her own cancer diagnosis.

As soon as we heard the news, I spoke to my mum in the first instance, who told me that she had shared the news with Mila.

Both were shocked and deeply saddened. My sister wants to and will send a card she wants to make herself, wishing Catherine well.

I felt overwhelming sympathy for the Princess, having known her kindness, as she has become a part of a community that affects so many.

A beautiful, kind and caring soul, she was not only a huge advocate as my sister underwent treatment, but also continued to show her support for her post-treatment and recovery.

It was in October 2020 that Mila and Catherine first connected, after an image was shared online.

My dad was pictured unable to enter the house, because Mila was shielding due to Covid.

Catherine kindly welcomed our family to Holyrood in May 2021. The Princess of Wales wore a pink dress for Mila when they met and made our family feel at ease.

She spent time sitting with us as she got to know Mila and the challenges she faced.

After intense media scrutiny over the past few months, I admire her bravery to discuss her private health matters with the world watching.

Her Royal Highness showed care and attentiveness towards not only my sister but also myself, my studies and challenges as an older sibling affected by such a challenging time for my immediate family and the world.

On behalf of the Sneddon family, we would like to wish Catherine well and a speedy and peaceful recovery.